State of the Art Orthopedic Care

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Treatment Options: Surgical

Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery if non-operative treatment does not relieve your symptoms. Surgery may also be considered if the tear is acute and painful, if it is the dominant arm of an active individual or if you need maximum strength in your arm for overhead work or sports.

The type of surgery performed depends on the size, shape and location of the tear. A partial tear may require only a trimming or smoothing procedure called a "debridement." A complete tear within the substance of the tendon is repaired by suturing the two sides of the tendon. If the tendon is torn from its insertion on the greater tuberosity of the humerus, it can be repaired directly to bone.

Many surgical repairs can be done on an outpatient basis.
In the operating room, your surgeon may remove part of the front portion of the scapula, the acromion as part of the procedure. The acromion is thought to cause "impingement" on the tendon. This may lead to a tear. Other conditions such as arthritis of the AC joint or tearing of the biceps tendon may also be addressed.

In general, three approaches are available for surgical repair. These include:



 3D Videos

Procedural Animations -
Screenshot of Interactive Video View informative animations that illustrate actual procedures relating to orthopedic care.




Arthroscopic Repair

A fiberoptic scope and small instruments are inserted through small puncture wounds instead of an open incision. The scope is connected to a television monitor and the surgeon can perform the repair under video control.



Mini-Open Repair

Newer techniques and instruments allow surgeons to perform a complete rotator cuff repair through a small incision, typically 4 cm to 6 cm.



Open Surgical Repair

A traditional open surgical incision is often required if the tear is large or complex or if additional reconstruction such as a tendon transfer has to be done. In some severe cases, where arthritis has developed, shoulder replacement is an option.

Your surgeon will recommend which technique is best for you.